It included 14 statements of belief in which, amongst other things, they affirm marriage being between one man and one woman.

In response to the document, Christians United has released its own list of statements of belief in support of LGBT+ inclusion in the church.

In its preamble, the document says: "A new day is dawning in the Church, and all Christians are being called to step out boldly and unapologetically in affirmation and celebration of our LGBT+ siblings as equal participants in the Kingdom of God.

"Therefore, in the hope of serving the Church of Jesus Christ and promoting greater reformation and reconciliation between the Church and the LGBT+ community, this coalition of Christian leaders offer the following affirmations and denials."

Signatories for the counter statement include Mike McHargue, co-founder of the Liturgists and Church of England synod member Jayne Ozanne.